I think we all recently witnessed a good example of how we the people can make a difference in the political process when we come together and make our voices heard. For better (or worse), the Minnesota Vikings will have a new home here for a long time to come.

With that said, this November Minnesotans will have an opportunity to make a real difference by voting yes to the marriage amendment question that will appear on the ballot. By voting yes, we will take our existing law that states that marriage is between one man and one woman and codify it in our state constitution, thus assuring that no judge, court or Legislature can ever redefine marriage. This is a nonpartisan issue that effects us all.

This amendment is similar to the one that just passed overwhelmingly in North Carolina and in 28 other states. We need only look to our neighbors south of us in Iowa to understand what happens when marriage is not protected in the constitution. Please do not be intimidated by those who would accuse supporters of traditional marriage as bullies, bigots or homophobes. We are none of the above. We are not opposed to people who are gay, but we are opposed at any attempt to redefine marriage.

Marriage is first and foremost about the unity of spouses and the good of children. All of the empirical evidence that exists proves that children have the best chance in life when they are raised by both a mother and a father in a committed marriage.

Please remember to vote yes to the marriage amendment on Nov. 6. If you leave it blank, it will be counted as a no vote. For more information on this important issue go to www.minnesotaformarriage.com.

 

Scott Bute

Alden